Mokpo Suhyup Awards Commendation to Contributors Participating in Fishermen Rescue Efforts

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Ki-dong] Mokpo Fisheries Cooperative (Chairman Kim Cheong-ryong) announced on the 28th that it awarded commendations to those who rescued fishermen in danger due to an unexpected accident at sea on the 26th.

On this day, a total of four honorees were recognized. Captain Ham Hee-cheol (368 Bokseongho) and Captain Yong Jeong-gyu (Suhwanho), who selflessly prioritized the noble rescue of lives over fishing losses, received the 'Rescue Merit Award' from the Korea Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives Chairman. Additionally, Shin Won-sang (368 Bokseongho) and Yong Seon-mi (Suhwanho), the vessel owners, were each awarded a 'Rescue Activity Encouragement Fund' of 1 million won.

Captain Ham Hee-cheol was the first to arrive at the scene after receiving a report of a fire on a 40-ton coastal gillnet fishing vessel operating near Hongdo, Geoje City, Gyeongnam Province on the 16th of last month, rescuing all 11 crew members who were at risk of losing their lives.

Captain Yong Jeong-gyu also promptly responded upon learning of a fire on a 9.77-ton coastal gillnet fishing vessel in distress off Byeongpungdo, Jindo County, Jeonnam Province on the 23rd of last month. He rescued all five crew members who had abandoned firefighting efforts and were waiting for rescue by taking them aboard his own vessel, significantly contributing to the prevention of casualties.

Kim Cheong-ryong, Chairman of Mokpo Fisheries Cooperative, praised, “Despite the difficult economic environment due to COVID-19, we can fish more safely because there are fellow fishermen who overcome all hardships and engage in precious life-saving efforts.” He urged, “Since the role of fellow fishermen is crucial in reducing casualties, I ask for active participation in voluntary rescue activities.”

Meanwhile, the Korea Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives supports part of the fishing losses incurred by vessels directly involved in maritime accident rescues to encourage active participation in rescue activities by the nearest surrounding vessels in case of accidents. Every year, it increases awards and rescue activity encouragement funds to continuously promote a voluntary rescue culture among fishermen.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.